Italian publishing giant Zanichelli Editore launches €60 million ZNEXT tech venture in Milan to back startups and acquire growth-ready businesses

You probably wouldn’t expect a traditional book publisher to make a bold move into the tech world—but that’s exactly what Zanichelli Editore is doing.

The historic Italian publishing house just launched ZNEXT, a €60 million initiative aimed at building and acquiring companies that are shaping the future of human potential through technology.

A New Chapter: Backing Ideas That Empower People

ZNEXT isn’t just about investment—it’s about impact.

With a mission centered on unlocking human potential, the initiative will focus on sectors that influence how people learn, work, grow, and stay well.

We’re talking EdTech, Lifelong Learning, Future of Work, and Wellbeing Tech—spaces where technology can truly make a personal and professional difference.

A Hands-On Approach with Founders and Innovators

At the helm of ZNEXT is CEO Elena Lavezzi, who’s leading the charge through a “venture builder” model.

That means ZNEXT isn’t just handing out checks and walking away—they’re rolling up their sleeves and acting as co-founders alongside global entrepreneurs and even innovators from inside Zanichelli itself.

They’ll invest up to €150,000 in pre-seed rounds to get ideas off the ground and follow up with more support down the line.

But the real value?

Operational guidance, strategic expertise, and access to a wide network of professionals and mentors.

Buying In: M&A for Growth-Ready Startups and Businesses

Beyond building from scratch, ZNEXT is also setting up an M&A vehicle to acquire majority stakes in promising startups and smaller businesses.

The goal is simple: take what’s already working and supercharge it.

Once a company joins the ZNEXT fold, the team will work closely with existing leadership to inject smart tech strategies, scale operations, and maximize growth potential.

It’s not just about buying companies—it’s about elevating them.

Powered by Vision, Backed by Legacy

The man behind this forward-thinking leap is Ferrante Enriques, a major shareholder in both Zanichelli Editore and ZNEXT.

With his backing, the publisher is signaling a major evolution—from a heritage name in education to a catalyst for future-forward ventures.

What’s Next for ZNEXT?

With the capital, team, and vision in place, ZNEXT is officially open for business.

Whether it’s supporting fresh startup ideas or transforming existing ones, the mission remains the same: to nurture innovations that help people thrive.

So, what’s next for ZNEXT?

Only time—and a few bold founders—will tell.